Steve Wozniak grew up in San Jose, California where his father worked at Lockheed Corporation as an engineer. From an early age onward he demonstrated both an aptitude for electronics as well as an affinity for mischief-making. Attending Homestead High School set the stage for a significant meeting in his life, even though it would only happen years later: his introduction to Steve Jobs through Bill Hernandez.
Wozniak’s time at the University of Colorado at Boulder was short-lived due to a prank that resulted in his expulsion. Subsequent educational pursuits took him to De Anza College and UC Berkeley. However, a job at Hewlett-Packard (HP) designing calculators sidetracked his academic journey. It was during this period that he and Jobs truly bonded, laying the foundation for their iconic partnership.
What Role Did Steve Wozniak Play in Apple’s Creation?
Wozniak’s genius was truly unveiled in 1975 when he started crafting what would later become the Apple 1 computer. While Jobs was the driving force behind turning the invention into a commercial venture, Wozniak was the mastermind behind the technology. In a show of loyalty, before diving into the entrepreneurial world, Wozniak offered HP the opportunity to buy the technology he had developed. After a decline from HP, the world witnessed the birth of Apple.
The partnership expanded when Ronald Wayne joined the duo, providing startup capital and other foundational support. However, Wayne’s exit 12 days later, for a mere $800, would become a legendary tale of missed opportunity.
Apple 1 was the beginning, but the Apple II series catapulted Apple into commercial success. With Wozniak’s groundbreaking hardware, operating system, and circuit board designs, Apple became a household name in the late ’70s.
What is Steve Wozniak’s Net Worth and How Did He Spend It?
Steve Wozniak was one of the co-founders of one of the world’s most successful tech companies – Apple – yet his net worth remains only $10 Million. While this may come as a shock, Wozniak’s generosity and philanthropy likely play a factor.
Wozniak gave away many of his shares – now worth billions – early on in Apple to colleagues whom he thought deserved them, as well as giving away much of his fortune to charity, especially organizations focused on children’s education. Wozniak has always led a relatively modest life; today his primary source of income comes from speaking engagements.
What Happened to Steve Wozniak After Apple?
Post Apple, Wozniak’s journey has been both diverse and impactful. A near-fatal plane crash in 1981 led to a hiatus from his work at Apple. This period allowed him to complete his degree at UC Berkeley, albeit under a pseudonym.
While his official ties with Apple were never severed (he still receives an annual stipend and is listed as an employee), Wozniak ventured into other domains. In 2001, he co-founded Wheels of Zeus (WoZ) with the aim of simplifying GPS technology for everyday use. His dedication to education is evident in his extensive support for the technology program in his local school district. Moreover, his organization, Un.U.Son (Unite Us In Song), further underscores his commitment to philanthropic efforts.
Steve Wozniak’s life stands as an inspiring testament to innovation, generosity and dedication. While most will associate him with Apple products and the Silicon Valley region in general, his legacy transcends such limits by touching countless lives worldwide.
